We usually focus on tiny pests that damage our fruit, but it’s also important to think about the larger pests that can damage newly planted fruit trees, like kangaroos, hares and rabbits. There’s a number of ways you can protect your trees fro [...]

Spring is not really the time for pruning but it’s a good idea to keep your secateurs in your pocket while you’re thinning your fruit, and nip off any bits of diseased wood you come across. Read the article in Spring - Week 8.

Until your apples and pears start producing leaves and then flowering, they can still be pruned (but you should have finished your pruning on anything that’s started flowering). Knowing whether your trees are spur bearing or tip bearing will h [...]

An annual succulent, purslane is has a low, spreading habit but can grow quite high (up to 40 cm). Native to India and Persia, it’s found throughout the world, and is quite a wonder plant. A tasty and nutritional  herb, purslane is tolerant of [...]

This delicious tart recipe comes from one of our members, and is her take on a recipe from Delicious magazine. Thanks to all! Get the recipe in Winter - Week 2.

We are huge fans of simple cooking, and always favour fail-safe tried and true recipes. This one has been kicking around the family for years, is quick to make, works every time, and is equally delicious with apples or quinces. It’s dairy-free [...]

Quinces are very aromatic, and turn a beautiful dark pink colour when cooked, so they lend themselves to preserving as jelly, jam or paste because they are delicious, and look amazing! Get the recipes in Winter - Week 1.

In this article we outline and present in easy-to-read tables the annual organic spray program we recommend for the various different types of fruit-what to spray, and when. It is based on our 20+ years of experience in growing fruit. Read the [...]

Knowing when your trees flower, and observing how well they flower, how long the blossom period lasts, and whether the flowers are affected by anything (e.g., rain, frost, hail, disease or wind) is a crucial step in becoming a good garden dete [...]

Flood can be devastating if you’re growing fruit trees, and depending on how long your trees are affected, can easily kill them. Here’s some tips for helping your trees to survive and your soil to recover. Read the aricle in Spring - Week 11. [...]

Our organic pest and disease control strategy is dependent on getting to know your enemy—and the first step is to figure out which of the common pests and diseases are (or are likely to be) a problem at your place. Filling out the tables in th [...]

Your trees don't need watering over winter, but it's a good time to set up or improve your irrigation system. This article explains how to set up a drip irrigation system from scratch. Read the article in Autumn - Week 10.